Q-AIR

Q-AIR

Q-AIR is a technological research and innovation project coordinated under the STEP INNTERCONECTA program (funded by the CDTI and the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities). Its main objective is to research quantum computing and post-quantum security technologies to define the cryptography and communications of the future.

The Q-AIR project consortium forms a balanced innovation ecosystem that brings together five technology companies and three leading research centers to cover the entire value chain in quantum technologies and cybersecurity. The business team is led by Ayesa and includes Optare Solutions, TD, ITS, and FSAS Technologies. To scientifically support the developments and provide advanced emulation and simulation infrastructures, the project relies on the subcontracting of ITCL, CTTC, and the COMPUTAEX foundation.

Within this strategic consortium, Optare Solutions plays a key role focused on the evolution and shielding of next-generation mobile networks.

Optare Objectives

The main focus of Optare Solutions in the project consists of improving the security and privacy of advanced mobile communications (5G-Advanced and the emerging 6G), with a special interest in the field of mobile private networks for critical environments (such as defense, emergencies, or strategic infrastructures).

Through specific objective OE2, Optare co-leads the development of ultra-secure networks by combining two cutting-edge approaches:

• Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): For certificate management, secure key exchange, and user identification resistant to quantum computer attacks.
• Quantum Communications (QKD): Research into quantum key distribution to protect network backhaul and network slicing orchestration.

Future Impact and Continuity

Upon completion of Q-AIR, Optare Solutions will consolidate a differential competitive advantage as a Digital Service Enabler (DSE). The acquired capabilities will allow the company to productize an outdoor and indoor mobile private network offering with an unprecedented degree of robustness and privacy, opening up access to highly demanding technological and industrial markets.

Subsequently, the continuity plan includes investments to natively integrate quantum and post-quantum security into real self-provisioning scenarios for Industry 4.0.

_{Q-AIR is a strategic project focused on hardware-agnostic quantum computing and post-quantum cybersecurity research to protect the information systems of the future. The consortium, co-funded by the CDTI, brings together five technology companies and three leading research centers. Optare Solutions leads the line aimed at shielding 5G-Advanced and 6G private mobile networks using PQC algorithms and QKD technologies. Its final validation is carried out on the company’s 5G-SA network to ensure ultra-secure communications in critical environments.}

_{Within the Q-AIR project, a grant of €377,155.00 has been awarded to Optare Solutions for its execution associated with file EXP – 00176553 / ITC-20251126 under the call for proposals for the INNTERCONECTA STEP 2025 call.}